First Look: Bliss Spa in the New W Washington D.C. Hotel

Bliss spa at the new W Washington D.C. Hotel. Photograph by McLean Robbins.

The cult-favorite spa Bliss brings its brand of irreverent fun to Washington with the opening of the W Washington D.C. hotel, located in the former Hotel Washington in DC’s downtown.

Located just below ground level, the 3,000-square-foot haven is the 16th Bliss spa and its 14th property in a W-branded hotel.

We were the first to get a behind-the-scenes peek at the space, including information on the spa’s trademark brownie bar—catered by the local chain Bread & Chocolate, winner of the “You Be the Fudge” taste test that took place on the streets of DC over the past few weeks.

Bliss is a modern oasis, decorated in the brand’s signature white and blue. To add a Washington touch, the wall separating the treatment areas from the retail space was designed with tones of cream, blue, and pink to represent cherry blossoms and a blue sky.

The spa features four treatment rooms, two manicure and pedicure stations, and men’s and women’s changing rooms plus a small retail shop stocking Bliss products and other selected lines.

One of our favorite features? The wall of Essie nail polishes, artfully arranged by color, which looked more like a work of art than a wall of polish. You’ll be catching many a glimpse, too—the brownie bar sits below it. Pedicures are performed on throne-like chairs, and a Plexiglas display holds current magazines.

Treatment rooms are sparse yet comfortable, with warm blankets on the treatment beds and thick doors to prevent external noise.

Changing areas, decorated in the spa’s minimalist style, include a full shower and bathroom as well as code-locking cubbies for storing clothes and purses during treatments. Naturally, the sink features a large array of Bliss products.

The two waiting areas feature chilled flavored water, comfortable chaises, and a selection of magazines.

Looking to book a treatment? Bliss spas are known for their triple-oxygen treatment, ginger rubdown, and “betweeny” wax.

515 15th St., NW; 202-661-2418; blissworld.com.

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Comments

Too bad you didn’t mention the interior designer, Dianna Wong, who designed the entire hotel including this spa. The artwork on the walls was designed specifically for Bliss by Paul Olson, Los Angeles. It turned out really well and I hear only good things! Looking forward to a visit!

Posted by: Bunny, Jul 31, 2009 01:23:26 PM

Great article! Love the photos :)

Posted by: Kristina, Jul 15, 2009 09:10:49 AM

Love, Love, Love Bliss Spa! I’ve been waiting for them to come to DC and will be making an appointment asap.

Posted by: Cindy, Jul 13, 2009 08:06:26 AM

I just vacationed in D.C. and was told about Bliss Spa through a friend with it being my first experience at this Spa I have to say by far it was absolutely amazing! I had a massage that relaxed me so much I thought I was in Heaven! The environment was very welcoming and warm, not to mention the customer service! I was completely blown away by their kindness and always willing to offer more to enhance your experience.

Posted by: Sasquia, Jul 09, 2009 08:37:10 AM

No the number is right! I just made a massage appointment!!! Can’t wait!!

Posted by: Eliza, Jul 09, 2009 07:51:03 AM

Are they running any promotions for their grand opening? Special deals for Washingtonian readers? I’ve tried Bliss in other cities and it’s definitely a treat. However, with the tough economy, job searching, and the fact that many of us already have our fave spa-spots, what are they doing to get us in the door?

Posted by: KiminAlex, Jul 09, 2009 07:08:29 AM

oh man, my mom is obsessed with Bliss. I think her head is going to explode when she hears about this! Sounds like a surprise is in store for her!

Posted by: Kate, Jul 08, 2009 12:59:12 PM

The phone number is wrong. That is for the J&G restaurant. Great reporting.

Posted by: Belle, Jul 08, 2009 12:26:56 PM